Police have dismissed claims by residents that a hostel for single mothers had been converted into a drugs rehabilitation centre, prompting a rise in crime.
Concerned residents claimed the homeless refuge for mothers and their babies in Wickford High Street had been turned into a drugs treatment clinic.
Residents had heard theft and car crime had soared as a result of the building's change of use.
One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "Unfortunately that has brought along with it visiting youths who fuel their addiction via the proceeds of thieving. It is apparent that many of the local shops are at their wits' end trying to cope with roaming groups of shoplifters."
However, Basildon District Council has confirmed the hostel is still for homeless mothers and not being used for recovering drug addicts.
A spokesperson said: "I can confirm there has been no change of use for the hostel."
The hostel is due to be taken over by a housing association in a few weeks but will remain as a hostel for single mums. Wickford police said there had been no change in crime patterns recently.
Published Wednesday April 14, 2004
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